Bronchoscopy of cetaceans

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Marine Mammal Science
• Respiratory Physiology

Background:

• Lower respiratory tract infections pose significant health risks to cetaceans.
• Obtaining respiratory samples from cetaceans for diagnostic analysis is difficult.
• Bronchoscopy is a valuable tool in respiratory medicine across various species.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the application of fiberoptic bronchoscopy in cetaceans.
• To document the feasibility and technique of bronchoscopy in dolphins and whales.
• To provide guidance for clinicians performing bronchoscopy on marine mammals.

Main Methods:

• Fiberoptic bronchoscopy was performed on three bottle-nosed dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and one false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens).
• The procedure involved visualization and sampling of the lower respiratory tract.
• Detailed observations of the technique and animal responses were recorded.

Main Results:

• Successful fiberoptic bronchoscopy was achieved in all four cetacean subjects.
• The procedure allowed for direct visualization of the tracheobronchial tree.
• Insights into the practicalities of cetacean bronchoscopy were gained.

Conclusions:

• Fiberoptic bronchoscopy is a viable technique for examining the respiratory system of cetaceans.
• This procedure facilitates the collection of lower respiratory tract samples for diagnostic purposes in marine mammals.
• The reported experience serves as a foundational guide for veterinary professionals working with cetaceans.